South Korea to Promote Buddhism in National Branding Image (Life & Arts)

Buddhism is one of the biggest religions in South Korea with more than 10 million followers in the country out of 48 million populations; there are 2,600 Buddhist temples across the country.

The Presidential Council on Nation Branding said on Friday South Korea plans to promote Buddhist temples and other traditional culture as a way to attract foreign tourists and improve its national branding image.

President Lee Myung-bak said in the council session, “Discovering and spreading the value of traditional culture, such as temples, are critical to enhancing Korea‘s image.”

Some temples have already offered programs that allow foreign tourists to stay in temples for several days to enjoy religious and cultural experiences.

The council also plans to spread local cultural content through smartphones and social networking sites.

(아주경제 이수지 기자)

Park Sae-jin swatchsjp@ajunews.com